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Entry Level Windows Kernel Developer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Nightwing

Windows Application Developer

Sterling, VA · On-site

Nightwing is seeking experienced Windows Application Developers to support the design, development ... Familiarity with Windows kernel concepts, memory management, and process/thread handling

Nwis

Windows Application Developer

Sterling, VA

$122K - $253K/yr

Nightwing is seeking experienced Windows Application Developers to support the design, development ... Familiarity with Windows kernel concepts, memory management, and process/thread handling

Qualcomm

#Windows Power Optimization Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$94K - $141K/yr

Algorithmic improvements to Windows kernel resource management schemes (eg., Windows Scheduler Task ... Programming and Technical Skills: C, C++, Python, Windows device drivers, ARM Assembly Language ...

Reveille Technologies

Firmware Engineer

Redmond, WA · On-site

Windows Kernel Driver Engineer Location : Redmond, WA Required Candidate Capabilities : * Professional experience with Windows drivers or system software * Proven kernel debugging and dump analysis

Procom Services

211774 / C/C++ Developer

Hillsboro, OR

$53.25 - $72/hr

Debug and development experience with Windows* kernel debuggers and/or Windows* application ... Windows* application software programming experience * Java experience * HTTPS protocol experience

Link, LLC

Windows Security Researcher

Annapolis, MD · On-site

Position Requirements: • Understanding of Windows Kernel and device derivers • Experience ... researchers and developers as part of a team We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to ...

Lorven Technologies

Software Developer

Austin, TX · On-site

Software Developer Location: Austin, TX * Develop high-performance C++ functional models for AMD ... Linux and Windows kernel debugging. * Functional modelling, architecture simulation, or hypervisor ...

Procom Consultants Group

C/C++ Developer

Hillsboro, OR

$53.25 - $72/hr

C/C++ Developer Job Details This position is 100% software development in C/C++ for Intel-based ... Windows* kernel debuggers and/or Windows* application debuggers Android driver and kernel-level ...

Nwis

Windows Vulnerability Research

Sterling, VA

$122K - $253K/yr

Experience with Windows kernel internals * Familiarity with common reverse engineering tools and debuggers * Understanding of modern exploit mitigations and bypass techniques * Experience supporting ...

Nightwing

Windows Vulnerability Research

Sterling, VA · On-site

$203K/yr

Experience with Windows kernel internals * Familiarity with common reverse engineering tools and debuggers * Understanding of modern exploit mitigations and bypass techniques * Experience supporting ...

FiveTwelve

Windows Security Researcher

Hanover, MD · On-site

$5.2K/mo

Requirements • Understanding of Windows Kernel and device derivers • Experience reading and ... developers **MUST HAVE TS/SCI w/ FSP (NSA) Benefits PTO: Our variable PTO plan lets you decide the ...

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Entry Level Windows Kernel Developer information

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How much do entry level windows kernel developer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level windows kernel developer in the United States is $100,265.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $63,500.00 and $106,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level Windows Kernel Developers, and how can new hires overcome them?

Entry-level Windows Kernel Developers often face challenges such as understanding complex system internals, debugging low-level code, and ensuring system stability and security when making changes. New hires can overcome these hurdles by immersing themselves in official Microsoft documentation, actively participating in code reviews, and seeking mentorship from experienced team members. Collaborating closely with QA and security teams is also vital to ensure robust and secure kernel modules.

What are entry level Windows Kernel Developers?

Entry level Windows Kernel Developers are software engineers who specialize in developing, maintaining, and debugging the core part of the Windows operating system, known as the kernel. At the entry level, they typically assist in writing and testing low-level code that interacts closely with hardware, handles memory management, and manages system resources. They often work under the guidance of senior developers and may contribute to device drivers, system utilities, and security features. A strong background in C/C++ programming and a solid understanding of operating system concepts are typically required for this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Windows Kernel Developer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Windows Kernel Developer, you need a solid background in computer science fundamentals, C/C++ programming, and operating system concepts, often supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with Windows kernel internals, debugging tools like WinDbg, and version control systems such as Git is typically expected. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication help you excel in collaborating with teams and troubleshooting complex issues. These skills are essential to develop stable and secure low-level software that interacts closely with the Windows operating system.
More about Entry Level Windows Kernel Developer jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Windows Kernel Developer jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Windows Kernel Developer job openings:
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Entry Level Windows Kernel Developer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Windows Kernel Developer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,265 per year, or $48.2 per hour.

Windows Application Developer

Nightwing

Sterling, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

Nightwing provides technically advanced full-spectrum cyber, data operations, systems integration and intelligence mission support services to meet our customers' most demanding challenges. Our capabilities include cyber space operations, cyber defense and resiliency, vulnerability research, ubiquitous technical surveillance, data intelligence, lifecycle mission enablement, and software modernization. Nightwing brings disruptive technologies, agility, and competitive offerings to customers in the intelligence community, defense, civil, and commercial markets.
Nightwing is seeking experienced Windows Application Developers to support the design, development, testing, and maintenance of Windows-based software applications. The ideal candidates will possess strong expertise in low-level Windows systems development and demonstrate proficiency across multiple programming languages and development tools.
Key Responsibilities
  • Design, develop, test, and debug Windows-based applications
  • Perform low-level systems development using Windows APIs
  • Develop and maintain software using C, C++, and Python
  • Utilize Visual Studio IDE and Windows SDK for application development
  • Troubleshoot and resolve complex software and system issues
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to meet project requirements
  • Ensure software solutions meet performance, security, and quality standards

Required Qualifications
  • Current TS/SCI with Poly Clearance

Candidates must meet the following minimum requirements:
  • Three (3) years of experience developing, testing, and debugging software in each of the following languages:
    • C
    • C++
    • Python
  • Three (3) years of demonstrated, in-depth experience developing, testing, and debugging software for Windows operating systems
  • Proven experience using:
    • Visual Studio IDE
    • Windows SDK
  • Demonstrated in-depth understanding of:
    • Windows low-level systems development
    • Windows APIs and system internals

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with multithreaded and performance-critical applications
  • Familiarity with Windows kernel concepts, memory management, and process/thread handling
  • Experience working in secure or regulated environments
  • Strong documentation and communication skills

Please Note: This position is contingent upon contract award.
At Nightwing, we value collaboration and teamwork. You'll have the opportunity to work alongside talented individuals who are passionate about what they do. Together, we'll leverage our collective expertise to drive innovation, solve complex problems, and deliver exceptional results for our clients.
Thank you for considering joining us as we embark on this new journey and shape the future of cybersecurity and intelligence together as part of the Nightwing team.
Nightwing is An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status, age or any other federally protected class.

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